Deuteronomy 17:18–19: “Also it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes.”

March 4th, 2023 by Pastor Ed in devotional

God warned the people of Israel that when they came into the land, they would want kings to rule over them like the nations around them had. So He established rules for these kings, knowing they would be tempted to amass armaments, multiple wives, and personal wealth, which He forbade. He also put in place a roadblock to these sins that would threaten to take over the monarchy. It was simple but effective, if they would practice it. The King was commanded to personally write out his own copy of the law. This would guarantee that the king was familiar with every single verse of the scriptures. And, more importantly, he would have a copy of the law that he could “read all the days of his life.” Knowing and following God’s principles, would help him stay humble, not becoming prideful and “lifted up above his brethren.” What a clear picture for every believer of how to remain humble and submitted before the Lord.

Everyone lives by some guiding philosophy or set of principals that determines what is acceptable and unacceptable to them. This is true even among the most rebellious members of society. Some might disagree, pointing to the seemingly lawless motorcycle groups, yet, when we look closely, we find they actually have a very strict code among themselves.

God wants us to choose the timeless truths He has placed in His word as the guiding principles of our lives. The Psalmist made that choice when he chose the word of God to be his guide for life, saying, it “is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). God said through Jeremiah the prophet, to the nation of Judah, even as it was failing:

Thus says the LORD, “Stand by the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; Then you will find rest for your souls.” But they said, “We will not walk in it” (Jer. 6:16).

In these statements, God warns as well as promises a blessing if they, and we, follow His word.

“LORD, we look to You to bless our lives as we read and put into practice what You have given us in Your word. Use us this day, in Jesus’ name.”